Dec 28, 2025 "Filled, Not Controlled" (Ephesians 5:17-21)

 

Ephesians 5:17-21 New International Version

¹⁷ Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.

¹⁸ Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit,

¹⁹ speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord,

²⁰ always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

²¹ Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

 

Filled, Not Controlled

Ephesians 5:17-21

 

Many Christians will often quote this passage to warn about alcohol.  

 

Ephesians 5:18 ESV

[18] And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,

 

However, Paul is talking about anything that controls you. Alcohol, money, success, or education can be all things that control your life. None of these things are bad, but if they control your life or fill your life, then it is a problem.

 

Paul contrasts being filled with wine and being filled with the Spirit. The spirit will lead you to life whereas wine will lead you to the world.

 

Many people will fill their lives with success, but that success is not long lasting and needs more success. Money is finite and can leave you easily. Education can lead to anxiety and arrogance. Addiction desires more of you and the long-term results are never beneficial. All of these things in its proper place and moderation are good but should not fill you unlike the Spirit of God.

 

When the Spirit fills you, you naturally give praise. Your life becomes a living sacrifice. Worship does not just happen at church, but will manifest at home, work and wherever you are.

 

Gratitude is also evident of the Spirit's work. Gratitude is not just a list of things that we can look to as evidence of God's blessing. Gratitude is knowing God is good and He is our creator.

 

When the Spirit fills you and your heart is full, you are not trapped by possessions, relationships, successes, or health. You can live and act in gratitude because you have God in your life.

 

God does not ask us to fix our lives, but He wants to know what fills our lives. Jesus calls us to him when we are weary and burdened. He calls us when we are broken and not perfect.

The freedom God offers after He fills us with His Spirit will satisfy and bring true freedom.

 

• Who You Say I Am
• God You're So Good
• Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)